Approach Venture ยท 1 day ago
Lead Mechanical Automation Engineer
El Segundo, CA
Full-time
Onsite
Senior Level
$140K/yr - $220K/yr
3+ years expApproach Venture is a rapidly scaling hardware startup focused on advancing next-generation manufacturing. As the Lead Mechanical Automation Engineer, you will design and develop mechanical systems for automated manufacturing, translating complex manual steps into scalable mechanisms and prototyping new equipment.
Management Consulting
Hiring Manager
Torey Bell
Responsibilities
Lead CAD design for automated assemblies, fixtures, tooling, and mechanical subsystems
Create complete mechanical build packages including drawings, GD&T, BOMs, and documentation
Develop early prototype mechanisms that evolve into production ready systems
Apply mechanical engineering fundamentals to improve accuracy, reliability, and throughput
Convert manual process steps into scalable mechanical automation concepts
Integrate actuators, sensors, motion components, and electromechanical assemblies
Support prototyping efforts by assembling, testing, and refining hardware
Troubleshoot systems on the shop floor to ensure performance and uptime
Collaborate with manufacturing engineers and technicians to adapt processes for automation
Develop equipment interfaces that prioritize usability, safety, and long term reliability
Optimize mechanical systems to meet production targets and reduce operator burden
Provide guidance during design, prototyping, and equipment builds
Support long term automation planning and system architecture decisions
Contribute to future equipment scaling strategies and capability development
Qualification
Required
3+ years designing mechanical systems for automated equipment or manufacturing environments
Strong CAD proficiency with experience producing detailed assemblies and drawings
Experience using GD&T, DFM, DFA, and high tolerance mechanical design practices
Demonstrated ability to bring mechanical concepts through fabrication, assembly, and testing
Hands on comfort with electromechanical hardware, wiring, sensors, and system debugging
Ability to rapidly prototype low cost mechanical concepts that mature into production systems
Strong communication and collaboration across mechanical, manufacturing, and controls teams
Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related discipline
Preferred
5+ years in automation development or custom machinery design
Background in composite manufacturing or equipment such as presses, ovens, or thermal systems
Experience developing motion systems such as linear rails, actuators, or gantries
Experience in aerospace, defense, or other high reliability manufacturing environments
Exposure to integrating sensors, controls hardware, or robotics into mechanical designs
Benefits
Stock options
Paid time off
Medical, dental, and vision benefits
401k with company match
Company
Approach Venture
Enabling founding teams building the future of frontier technology to achieve their full potential.
2-10 employees
Funding
Current Stage
Early StageLeadership Team
Bryce Dabbs
Founder & CEO
Tristan Cembrinski
Partner
Company data provided by crunchbase